Happy Friday everyone! We were pleasantly surprised at how much we liked the Taos compared to its larger Tiguan. It handles so much better than its two bigger siblings... now if only VW would give this thing GTI power... it would be the perfect SUV for those of you needing more space versus your GTI. A Taos GTI... make it happen Volkswagen! Like this comment if you agree :)
I bought the front wheel drive sel. So far, I like it. I'm a realtor and I drive a lot. It has met all my current needs for work. Space for clients, gas mileage, style and comfort. A plus is that it comes with wifi comparability for my office work on the road.
Audi Q3 starts at $34k and has everything (and more) what fully loaded VW Taos has that costs near $35k. And Q3 has the same amazing GTI engine drives and looks so much better than VW's entry level SUV. Near basic Taos at ~$25k makes sense but whoever buys a fully loaded Taos at $35k needs their head examined.
I don’t believe so. It the Audi base doesn’t have everything and all that the top Taos has. Price the highest trim Audi Q3 to this Taos and in Canada at least the Audi after taxes is $4-6000 more. That’s because if you want all the safety you get nickel and dimed to get it. What disappoints on the VW website and the Audi website is that the pricing of the top trims price beginnings, “exclude” the delivery charge. For the American viewers I thought the Taos in Canada delivery charge was high at $1950. The Audi’s $2250. Ouch. Audi Q3 apparently is made in Hungary. I’d say that is and it is hungry!
@@westnash Not anymore. Gti engine doesn’t need premium anymore but premium can liven the engine for sure. It is good old regular 87 from top brands. We have one in Atlas. And it says on fuel cap.
Update! I tried the launch control of the 7 speed DCT on the Taos it works like charm, can't belive they advertise this vehicles as a 8.4 second 0-60 when in reality it can do 6.9 secons using regulat 87 gas when using launch
Me and my girlfriend are in the market for this, a few months ago you posted a quick review of this car and I was immediately intrigued. After this in depth review this is at the top of our list. Seems super spacious and roomy for our pets and its jammed packed with features. Plus it's super classy looking and awd is a must where I'm at. Thank you for always providing RUclips with quality videos!
At this stage of life ones gets a coupe with rear seats. If tht doesnt work they choose sdn/hatch/wgn. But u man have increased ur age by 20, height by 2 feet and width by 1 feet, cuz u want such a vechicle.
I bought a Taos earlier this month and am very happy with it! It handles great and the base FWD model w/ IQ.Drive is loaded with great features. I love that it has automatic transmission vice CVT like so many cars now. The 1.5L with turbo delivers plenty of power for Hawaii driving with exceptional gas mileage. It looks great (mine is platinum gray with black rims!), is solidly built and is a great value for the money. There are two design features, however, that I really wish VW would change or perhaps offer aftermarket solutions. First, you have to pry off a small piece of plastic on the driver's door handle to access the mechanical lock. This probably isn't a big deal for most people, but is a PIA for watermen/women that need to take a mechanical key with them out on the water. Second, the rear seats do not fold flat with the cargo area and the cargo area is about 6” lower than the hatch sill. To me, a large flat cargo/folded down rear seat area is one of the biggest reasons to buy a SUV - if the seats don’t fold level with the cargo area it’s pretty useless for loading and transporting large gear and sports equipment. This really should be redesigned! Maybe make the rear seat bottom flip forward so the seat back can fold down lower? I’m going to try and build the cargo area up 4 inches with foam/wood to make it only a couple inches below the hatch sill, but the folded rear seat back will still be about 4 inches higher. (A friend of mine, thinks that because the Taos is a short Tiquan, the low cargo area may be a design artifact of the third row of seats in the Tiquan.) I hope there will be some aftermarket solution for the 2022 Taos someday - perhaps with storage under a raised platform.
@@emilygracebrunson5387 The S model. The car is great. I'm just finding it really hard to live with a cargo area that isn't level when the seats are folded down! I need to be able to slide things in! They should have included one of those platforms so you can adjust the cargo area height.
I think the actual interior space of the Tao’s can absolutely compete with RAV4 CRV in the compact SUV segment. And dimensions of Taos Almost the same as Q3 only 90mm shorter than CRV.
So I have a 2021 RAV4 PRIME and the 2022 TAOS. I honestly would say this vehicle is very similar to the Toyota RAV 4! Super sporty and the handling feel. Not as fast, I do love the sport mode and it feels a little roomier up front. I do wish this had a little bit more storage in the car for sunglasses or something like that. The lights are sexy on the inside and outside. Definitely reminds me of a Audi. It could have a better back up camera in my opinion and a new horn sound lol. Overall I love my TAOS and I prefer driving it over the RAV4 right now. I haven’t drove my Taos in the snow yet but my rav 4 definitely CLIMBS up ice without hesitation. So I’m excited to see how the Taos does.
2022 VW Taos has several positives like a spacious cargo space, AWD capability etc. but the small 158 horsepower engine is a let down, especially since it's the only engine offered, even for the topmost trim that costs $35,000.
I really like the front grill setup. I really like the interior. Nice engine and I'm glad they didn't use a stupid CVT. The VW 1.8L was the best engine VW ever made, but the 1.5L is one of the best engines in the world. I like the turbo. It probably drives very well on the highway.I had a VW DCT in previous 2008 golf, and it was cool to drive, but a little clunky.
Unless you really like all the bells and whistles, or get a top trim model that comes with it, sometimes you save money and don't have problems with the basics. A good example is the Honda HR-V Sport. Has the nice styling and big wheels/tires and Sport tuned suspension, but no sunroof, more secure, old school ignition key, analog instrument panel gauges, manual adjust seats, manual single zone A/C and no Honda Sense if you're a more experienced and attentive driver. Less things to go wrong, with complicated and expensive repairs.
I was curious of the exact dimensions as I think the US spec Tiguan got too big. The 1st gen was a great size for me. Turns out, the Taos is within an inch of the 1st gen Tiguan which I think is great!
This one is the prefect size for us. Subcompacts tend to be narrower with smaller rear seat legroom while many compacts have went the oposite way. This is prefect for a single person, couple or family with 1 or 2 children. Enough room without going overboard. I only wish they offered a higher performance model and increase the top end screen size. 8" for the loaded trim is very 2018, 8" is most other manufacturers base size.
I can't imagine a car with this weight having the performance on the highway I'd expect with just the 1.5 TSI. The weight of the Taos is within 100 lbs of the original Tiguan, which came with a 200hp, 200ft/lb 2.0TSI similar to the current Tiguan
I have a 2019 Jetta SEL and I've always wanted wireless apple carplay and a heated steering wheel. For as small as the engine is I think it drives pretty nice and doesn't seem sluggish. I just might have to get this Taos. I'm shocked they didn't include a power liftgate.
Keep in mind that the Taos is several hundred pounds heavier than the Jetta so you may very well find the Taos to be sluggish, especially under full load.
I believe there is a market for a performance version of this vehicle. My wife for example. She is a gen xer who always drove golfs , GTIs , and even had a R32, but she is now mid 40s and bought a new Tiguan for comfort , utility , and bad weather driving. She loves the Tiguan but sometimes wishes it was quicker , handled better, and was smaller. As we no longer have children in the house the Tiguan size is probably overkill. She sometimes takes my GTI and says I wish VW would make a suv version of it.
My wife and I just bought a 2021 jeep renegade limited. Led light package , lane keep assist package and panoramic sunroof. It's basically loaded and snickered for 34,000. Minus jeeps discounts we got it for 29,000-30,000. And even these cars get ripped a little bit its really been great . And the 1.3 turbo engine is way way better than the 2.4 engine . The 1.3 turbo puts out 177 HP and 210 ft lbs of torque. Way more than this thing puts out
What is with being upset at the tailgate? I agree it should be an option for those who want, many don't want the added expense and complexity for something so simple. Complaining about these gimmicks is why new cars are so expensive.
We are moving up from an Alltrack. Engine is smaller yet matched the torque output and weight is similar. However, the old Alltrack has more HP , paddle shifters and premium sound. A bigger engine will be perfect.
The GTI version is the Cupra Ateca with 300hp, it used the platform of the Taos, but is made in Spain, US market is not receiving it so far, I hope that VW made that version of the Taos.
Bought a SEL 4Motion about 6 months ago and think its an okay little SUV But really wish I woulda went with a Mazda CX30 Turbo instead for a little less money and WAY more SUV....
Canadians, test drive the car in winter before buying it. It is because, with a 1.4L engine in the Golf, the engine takes a minimum of 40mins to warm up to send the warm car in the cabin. This is a major problem in the prairies and there are several claims on VW to buy back the car. So with a 1.5L engine for a compact SUV, I believe you will run into similar heating problems in the winter.
If this thing had the 2.0 EA888 it would be one of the most fun and well rounded suvs or cuvs out there. Will have to wait for next year model when like typical premium features trickle down to lower trims and see if an R-line model pops up. Q3 with this engine is much more tempting and not that far away in pricing if you dont load it up with features
As a 2017 Gti owner, I appreciate the shout out as someone who is looking for a bigger, more practical vehicle. I wish the cargo space was a touch bigger, like the Tiguan. But if this retains the nice handling characteristics that underpin the gti, at least in awd guise, it sounds like its worth a look. The last Tiguan I drove was nice but a handling was NOT where it was at.
I recently went from a Tiguan SE to a Taos S FWD with the IQ drive and convenience packages. The Taos definitely feels peppier despite having a smaller engine. It must be down on weight and I feel like the transmission tuning seems better when starting and stopping. Especially for when you want to not quite stop completely at a stop sign. I kind of miss the larger screen and keyless entry from the higher trim lines, but overall I am very happy with it. *Edit I have fwd not awd
@@abygaylestephens5101 sorry, I meant to say that I have the front wheel drive. It will not be as efficient as FWD since the AWD has the DSG automatic transmission instead of the regular automatic and there are efficiency losses with awd. I drive very conservatively and mostly highway and can get around 40 mpg. I will have to check the average long term mpg in the car and let you know. I do still wish I went for the AWD, though for the few times when I go snowboarding.
I come from a 2019 Tiguan SEL r line and it doesn't have the same power from Tiguan but it makes up in it's overall performance, right off the bat the handling was surprising with how tighter it was compared to the Tiguan
We went to CarMax yesterday and drove a 2022 Taos 4Motion SEL back to back with a 2022 Tiguan SE R-Line Black Package, and the Taos was better in almost every aspect. Peppier, smoother ride, quieter on the road, more room in the backseat, it was so much better than the Tiguan.
I'm SO happy it doesn't have a power liftgate! They're always slow/finicky and cost a fortune to fix when they break. How feeble are you to need one.......
Just test drove this today. I love it. My wife loves it. We can't wait. I do agree with the power though and wonder why they'd not put the GTI engine but I guess that's the q3 either way
@@nanalala3902 38K will get you a sweet ass Mazda CX5. end of story,, It's like the price tag on this POS is a commercial for other vehicles, because it is sure making everything else on the market look like a bargain you can get a Lexus NX for that price
I actually really like these from the videos I've seen so far. But I've gotten so spoiled by my Kia Niro's 45-50mpg. I kinda wish the Taos had either a hybrid to be comparable, or a sportier 2.0L model to be more fun. Especially since it replaced the Golf.
Almost everyone I know that has bought a VW in the last few years had lots of issues the closer they got to 100k miles. We test drive the Atlas when it first came out and couldn't get over how cheap it felt inside, like all the plastic came from the dollar store. I've always heard, lease the Germans buy the Japanese.
I really wish they would stop with those fake exhaust tips, other then that I like the design. Im not sure why VW and Audi think they look good because they dont.
That's too much strain on that small 1.5 liter turbo engine, especially when the Taos is loaded down with family and cargo. Engine will have issues right after warranty ends.
I've tested both the FWD and the AWD version of the Taos. IMO, the AWD is easily the better option. Having said that, for the AWD models, VW should have (at least) used the 1.8L TSI from the (discontinued) Alltrack and added paddle shifters to the steering column. That would have made for an exceptional vehicle for it's class, and added value to the rather high price that VW is asking for the Taos.
In this review it mentions the seats are leatherette but when I go to build the SEL it mentions leather only in the SEL version. Which type do they really have?
Very solid review, Shared this with my brother that is looking to go from his Jetta to the Taos. I will test drive it as well to see how it feels compared to my VW Alltrack. Creating a GTI version of this would be really cool to see, but I also want the Alltrack to come back since they redesigned it and kept it in Europe this time around.
Not a chance in hell that VW will try to resurrect the extremely slow selling Alltrack wagon in the US. The mainstream wagon for sale in the US is the Outback and Subaru does everything they can to disguise the fact that it's a lifted wagon.
@@stephenhendricks103 I do agree that they will never bring it back here, but it is actually not dead yet. They did redesign it to match the Mk8 Golf, but it will be yet more forbidden fruit.
I like it, from most reviews I've seen it definitely needs an optional engine with more power, but the engine it has now is probably good for most people.
Average European also makes more money! Here only the super rich can afford anything and ,obviously, they not gonna buy a Taos. The local middle-class is broke and VW knows about it.
I’d take the CX-30, however I would like to test one of these as I would consider it. My only concern is VW’s reliability. I have had 3 Mazda’s so far and never had an issue.
@@Kev_inn_ That's a very wise and measured statement. Even the Atlas, one of VW's best sellers, has had reliability issues. Mazda is a very reliable car brand and has been for some time. I like KIA/Hyundai because these guys are serious about rising in the ranks.
@@dextersmithbsee I agree with you, personally I love Kia/Hyundai as well and they have gone far from when they first started. However Hyundai has had some serious recalls as well. Don’t get me wrong I personally love the design language of VW and Hyundai/Kia it’s just the reliability that gets me thinking. I currently have a 2019 Mazda3 hatchback and I’m considering switching to CUV. But idk. Kinda like having a small car and the agility of it.
Awesome explanation, however @ 10:55 the reason the floor is not flat is because the car is a 4motion I mean it needs that hump to run a transmission bar to the rear wheels under it. Thanks for the vid.
It seems like Volkswagen didn't road test this vehicle much or didn't care that the transmission and engine don't get along well at all. We bought the 2022 with 4 motion and the power is good but the transmission shifts very poorly from 1st to 2nd and lurches forward when even being light on the throttle. Its very difficult to drive smoothly when starting off the line.
I can get mine as smooth as any, zero of the lurching or whatever I hear you and some others talk about. You need to figire out how to use it and listen and feel what it does. And don't slam on the gas pedal but first press lightly until you feel it engage and rev up slightly, THEN you can go for it as you prefer 😆
I like the price. I'm usually immensely dislike gray but I kinda liked this shade of gray. The deal breaker is not having a power lift gate. My current car has that and it's a 2017!!! It's one of the things I like best about my car. The power lift gate is so CONVENIENT!!!
@@braetonwilson4296 I’m sure you’re right but VW figured out what sells in the US. They offered the Passat (07-10) and original Tiguan with “The GTI engine” and nobody bought them. The 2012+ Passat has sold much better with less power and the 2nd gen Tiguan is their best seller.
@@DJPleasureSeekingMissle Isn’t that Toyota for? Past the warranty? If you want fun in driving while doesn’t care about reliability, then Toyota Taos/golf for you, not Volkswagen Corolla/rav4.
The Taos is from the C Segment (compact) not the sub-compact, that's why it's roomy inside. But it's below the Tiguan. The compact SUV segment splitted in two variations, just like the Tiguan and the Taos, here in Argentina, Toyota did it with the RAV-4 (in my country is VERY expensive, almost no one buys one, and too big for our market), and the new Corolla Cross. The Corolla Cross a compact SUV that sits below the RAV-4 in size and pricing. And for the sub compact segment you have the CH-R. In the case of Volkswagen, as sub compact you have the T-Cross and the Nivus wich is the "coupe" version of the T-Cross.
Actually the Taos is not a compact SUV, it is sub-compact. But, it is the largest in the sub-compact segment, so much so that it could be considered as the smallest in the compact segment.
Why is it that reviews are always given of the most expensive trim level? It would make more sense to give reviews of the most popular trim level with information and photos provided for the most expensive.
Wondering why we didn’t get the T-Roc or T-Cross, or even the shorter wheelbase Tiguan, and instead the Taos, an entirely new model, for the U.S. Kind of like the US vs EU versions of the Passat, or the Atlas vs. Tuareg.
Why are the auto makers using plastic products inside and on the doors instead of chrome. It dulls, tarnish and ends up scratched easily and discoloration. I impressed with the Taos really good looking vehicle
Too expensive at $35K for the fully loaded one. You can get a CX-5 for that price. Plus this model lacks a driver's side ceiling grip and no power trunk, foolish. Being that this is not made in Germany, it should cost the most at $29, 000
@@yankeedoodle6293 don’t believe everything you hear from people who like to bash cars and be negative yet most never own the cars they bash. They just need a reason to gossip. I’ve owned 5 Volkswagens now, 2 Tiguans. I drive from Texas to California in my Tiguan and it’s been flawless and I tell all of my friends and family how solid and smooth and quiet it is. I’ve maintained it. The only real complaint is that along with most everyone else, I think the power is adequate due to the healthy amount of torque but it’s not going to win any races. I only paid $24,300 including destination for mine and it’s been great! I feel like I spent more money: it’s got some of the best seats I’ve ever used. Plenty of storage spaces & a large cargo area. I could go on and on. Everyone I know that has one likes it. I highly recommend the Tiguan. I also have amazing luck with Mazda products, too.
Happy Friday everyone! We were pleasantly surprised at how much we liked the Taos compared to its larger Tiguan. It handles so much better than its two bigger siblings... now if only VW would give this thing GTI power... it would be the perfect SUV for those of you needing more space versus your GTI. A Taos GTI... make it happen Volkswagen! Like this comment if you agree :)
Thanks bud
I need to work on my reading skills... I read the title as Volkswagen Tacos. 😁
A baby Tiguan R that doesn’t cost the equivalent €60k. Yes.
VW went with the Jetta GLS instead of GTI. Perhaps it could be part of VW's plan to offer a Taos R for the U.S in the near future.
@@Erin-Thor That's okay. Its almost lunch time in our area and we're hungry too!
I like that VW didn't followed the other manufacturers by " gluing " a tablet on top of the dashboard.
Right?! What is it with that trend??
Then take a look to the german models like ID.3, ID.4 or Golf 8 😂😂
Yea I told my wife the same thing, that VW is the only manufacturer that I know of now that are still putting the backup camera in the dash
@@Terrysoddy yuck for the in dash radio
@@Terrysoddy backup camera in the dash? Shouldn't it be mounted on the rear of the vehicle?
I bought the front wheel drive sel. So far, I like it. I'm a realtor and I drive a lot. It has met all my current needs for work. Space for clients, gas mileage, style and comfort. A plus is that it comes with wifi comparability for my office work on the road.
Congrats with the new Taos SEL! Does the WIFI Hotspot provide a generally solid connection? Also looking to get a Taos! Thanks!
how often do you fill ur gas in a week if u dont mind me asking?
Sorry to ask how much you spend a month for Gas?
I'm a realtor as well. Glad I found this comment two years later lol
My Girlfriend bought one of these this past weekend. I am amazed with the space and value for money. She got an SE and it's very impressive.
Audi Q3 starts at $34k and has everything (and more) what fully loaded VW Taos has that costs near $35k. And Q3 has the same amazing GTI engine drives and looks so much better than VW's entry level SUV. Near basic Taos at ~$25k makes sense but whoever buys a fully loaded Taos at $35k needs their head examined.
same thought here. Both cars require regular gas. Q3 is definitely more fun to drive and a lot more luxurious.
I don’t believe so. It the Audi base doesn’t have everything and all that the top Taos has. Price the highest trim Audi Q3 to this Taos and in Canada at least the Audi after taxes is $4-6000 more. That’s because if you want all the safety you get nickel and dimed to get it. What disappoints on the VW website and the Audi website is that the pricing of the top trims price beginnings, “exclude” the delivery charge. For the American viewers I thought the Taos in Canada delivery charge was high at $1950. The Audi’s $2250. Ouch. Audi Q3 apparently is made in Hungary. I’d say that is and it is hungry!
@@jest403 Nope premium fuel recommended for GTI and Q3.
@@westnash Not anymore. Gti engine doesn’t need premium anymore but premium can liven the engine for sure.
It is good old regular 87 from top brands. We have one in Atlas. And it says on fuel cap.
Check out the HP on the new Audi and you see it had dropped like a stone.
Your reviews are thorough and fairly unbiased. I like that.
Agreed!
Update! I tried the launch control of the 7 speed DCT on the Taos it works like charm, can't belive they advertise this vehicles as a 8.4 second 0-60 when in reality it can do 6.9 secons using regulat 87 gas when using launch
Me and my girlfriend are in the market for this, a few months ago you posted a quick review of this car and I was immediately intrigued. After this in depth review this is at the top of our list. Seems super spacious and roomy for our pets and its jammed packed with features. Plus it's super classy looking and awd is a must where I'm at. Thank you for always providing RUclips with quality videos!
If you value your money/sanity, I’d highly recommend going to a different brand. Mazda or Toyota would be solid.
DJ Pleasure is right. Buy a Mazda or Toyota SUV instead.
At this stage of life ones gets a coupe with rear seats. If tht doesnt work they choose sdn/hatch/wgn. But u man have increased ur age by 20, height by 2 feet and width by 1 feet, cuz u want such a vechicle.
do yourself a favor and stay away from this pile of crap. Classy it’s not, that I could tell you.
You need the car!! The Mazda and Toyota doesn’t feel as roomy up front.
I buy the new 2022 Volkswagen Taos 3 weeks ago and I am impressed with the Taos super economic In gas and fell great to drive
If it only had no less than 200 HP or at least the Tiguan with 200 HP it will be a no brainer to get them
I just saw one of these for the first time, and it was good looking. I was always a fan of the original Tiguan, so this seems just right.
One good thing about the whimsy horn is it’s less intimidating, at stoplights, thus less likely to cause road rage. My Atlas sounds about the same.
You drive by some beautiful homes Sofyan!
I bought a Taos earlier this month and am very happy with it! It handles great and the base FWD model w/ IQ.Drive is loaded with great features. I love that it has automatic transmission vice CVT like so many cars now. The 1.5L with turbo delivers plenty of power for Hawaii driving with exceptional gas mileage. It looks great (mine is platinum gray with black rims!), is solidly built and is a great value for the money. There are two design features, however, that I really wish VW would change or perhaps offer aftermarket solutions. First, you have to pry off a small piece of plastic on the driver's door handle to access the mechanical lock. This probably isn't a big deal for most people, but is a PIA for watermen/women that need to take a mechanical key with them out on the water. Second, the rear seats do not fold flat with the cargo area and the cargo area is about 6” lower than the hatch sill. To me, a large flat cargo/folded down rear seat area is one of the biggest reasons to buy a SUV - if the seats don’t fold level with the cargo area it’s pretty useless for loading and transporting large gear and sports equipment. This really should be redesigned! Maybe make the rear seat bottom flip forward so the seat back can fold down lower? I’m going to try and build the cargo area up 4 inches with foam/wood to make it only a couple inches below the hatch sill, but the folded rear seat back will still be about 4 inches higher. (A friend of mine, thinks that because the Taos is a short Tiquan, the low cargo area may be a design artifact of the third row of seats in the Tiquan.) I hope there will be some aftermarket solution for the 2022 Taos someday - perhaps with storage under a raised platform.
Did you get an S, SE, or SEL?
@@emilygracebrunson5387 The S model. The car is great. I'm just finding it really hard to live with a cargo area that isn't level when the seats are folded down! I need to be able to slide things in! They should have included one of those platforms so you can adjust the cargo area height.
Sofyan, I have always enjoyed your videos, but I am really loving the camera upgrade and new intro. Well done!!!
Just bought my 2022 taos 4 motion and I love it so much.
I think the actual interior space of the Tao’s can absolutely compete with RAV4 CRV in the compact SUV segment. And dimensions of Taos Almost the same as Q3 only 90mm shorter than CRV.
Hello
I’ve been eyeing this car since before it came out I cannot wait
Just got one , se trim and really like it
I just bought the AWD SE! I wish I would’ve known that the SEL came with cooled seats but i’m loving the panoramic sunroof
So I have a 2021 RAV4 PRIME and the 2022 TAOS. I honestly would say this vehicle is very similar to the Toyota RAV 4! Super sporty and the handling feel. Not as fast, I do love the sport mode and it feels a little roomier up front. I do wish this had a little bit more storage in the car for sunglasses or something like that. The lights are sexy on the inside and outside. Definitely reminds me of a Audi. It could have a better back up camera in my opinion and a new horn sound lol. Overall I love my TAOS and I prefer driving it over the RAV4 right now. I haven’t drove my Taos in the snow yet but my rav 4 definitely CLIMBS up ice without hesitation. So I’m excited to see how the Taos does.
2022 VW Taos has several positives like a spacious cargo space, AWD capability etc. but the small 158 horsepower engine is a let down, especially since it's the only engine offered, even for the topmost trim that costs $35,000.
Which VW dealership do you work at?
@@nickr3441 what makes you think I work at a VW dealership?
Same feelings. The top trim is baffling with that engine.
@@braetonwilson4296 you sound like a salesman
@Jonathan A bc I don't like German garbage? Lol
I really like the front grill setup. I really like the interior. Nice engine and I'm glad they didn't use a stupid CVT. The VW 1.8L was the best engine VW ever made, but the 1.5L is one of the best engines in the world. I like the turbo. It probably drives very well on the highway.I had a VW DCT in previous 2008 golf, and it was cool to drive, but a little clunky.
No power liftgate is a major plus for me. They're slow as hell and they break.
Agreed! Opening a lift gate is not that difficult lol
I 100% agree! In the rain, it is very beneficial to not have to wait for the power tailgate to open.
You don't push the button on the fob as you walk up to the car?
Unless you really like all the bells and whistles, or get a top trim model that comes with it, sometimes you save money and don't have problems with the basics. A good example is the Honda HR-V Sport. Has the nice styling and big wheels/tires and Sport tuned suspension, but no sunroof, more secure, old school ignition key, analog instrument panel gauges, manual adjust seats, manual single zone A/C and no Honda Sense if you're a more experienced and attentive driver. Less things to go wrong, with complicated and expensive repairs.
@@TheVwboyaf1 technology making people lazy asf, can't ever buy a car with out power lift gate . Sad
I was curious of the exact dimensions as I think the US spec Tiguan got too big. The 1st gen was a great size for me. Turns out, the Taos is within an inch of the 1st gen Tiguan which I think is great!
@Redline Reviews, that 4K quality looks insanely nice. I appreciate that a lot! Keep up the great work!
This one is the prefect size for us. Subcompacts tend to be narrower with smaller rear seat legroom while many compacts have went the oposite way. This is prefect for a single person, couple or family with 1 or 2 children. Enough room without going overboard. I only wish they offered a higher performance model and increase the top end screen size.
8" for the loaded trim is very 2018, 8" is most other manufacturers base size.
Yeah. This is by far, the best looking from the bunch.
I saw a Volkswagen Taos yesterday in Fredericksburg, Texas yesterday at the car show.
I like it. Looks like a mixture of Tiguan and Atlas.
I can't imagine a car with this weight having the performance on the highway I'd expect with just the 1.5 TSI. The weight of the Taos is within 100 lbs of the original Tiguan, which came with a 200hp, 200ft/lb 2.0TSI similar to the current Tiguan
Agreed. Drove a 4motion Tiguan as a loaner and it was an absolute drag. Don't even get me started about being in eco mode, what a safety liability.
I have a 2019 Jetta SEL and I've always wanted wireless apple carplay and a heated steering wheel. For as small as the engine is I think it drives pretty nice and doesn't seem sluggish. I just might have to get this Taos. I'm shocked they didn't include a power liftgate.
Keep in mind that the Taos is several hundred pounds heavier than the Jetta so you may very well find the Taos to be sluggish, especially under full load.
Um.. I dont see any advatage the Taos has over the perfect jetta.
just get a base q3 or keep your jetta
As much as enthusiast wanting more power in the cars in general, how big is the enthusiast market for a sub-compact SUV?
Minuscule.
@@stephenhendricks103 not true
I believe there is a market for a performance version of this vehicle. My wife for example. She is a gen xer who always drove golfs , GTIs , and even had a R32, but she is now mid 40s and bought a new Tiguan for comfort , utility , and bad weather driving. She loves the Tiguan but sometimes wishes it was quicker , handled better, and was smaller. As we no longer have children in the house the Tiguan size is probably overkill. She sometimes takes my GTI and says I wish VW would make a suv version of it.
@@m176r3 I just wonder if there are enough people like your wife who want a performance version to make it worthwhile for VW.
My wife and I just bought a 2021 jeep renegade limited. Led light package , lane keep assist package and panoramic sunroof. It's basically loaded and snickered for 34,000. Minus jeeps discounts we got it for 29,000-30,000. And even these cars get ripped a little bit its really been great . And the 1.3 turbo engine is way way better than the 2.4 engine . The 1.3 turbo puts out 177 HP and 210 ft lbs of torque. Way more than this thing puts out
I noticed, this is missing the auto hold by the parking brake. Am I wrong?
What is with being upset at the tailgate? I agree it should be an option for those who want, many don't want the added expense and complexity for something so simple. Complaining about these gimmicks is why new cars are so expensive.
We are moving up from an Alltrack. Engine is smaller yet matched the torque output and weight is similar. However, the old Alltrack has more HP , paddle shifters and premium sound. A bigger engine will be perfect.
If you are trading an Alltrack for this you are trading down. This thing reeks of Jetta cheapness in materials and switchgear.
The GTI version is the Cupra Ateca with 300hp, it used the platform of the Taos, but is made in Spain, US market is not receiving it so far, I hope that VW made that version of the Taos.
Bought a SEL 4Motion about 6 months ago and think its an okay little SUV But really wish I woulda went with a Mazda CX30 Turbo instead for a little less money and WAY more SUV....
Canadians, test drive the car in winter before buying it. It is because, with a 1.4L engine in the Golf, the engine takes a minimum of 40mins to warm up to send the warm car in the cabin. This is a major problem in the prairies and there are several claims on VW to buy back the car. So with a 1.5L engine for a compact SUV, I believe you will run into similar heating problems in the winter.
Yud better ask Russians who have this engine in Skoda Karoq, Kodiaq cars
You can just burn the car down and use it for heat. Much more useful that way then driving it.
If this thing had the 2.0 EA888 it would be one of the most fun and well rounded suvs or cuvs out there. Will have to wait for next year model when like typical premium features trickle down to lower trims and see if an R-line model pops up. Q3 with this engine is much more tempting and not that far away in pricing if you dont load it up with features
As a 2017 Gti owner, I appreciate the shout out as someone who is looking for a bigger, more practical vehicle. I wish the cargo space was a touch bigger, like the Tiguan. But if this retains the nice handling characteristics that underpin the gti, at least in awd guise, it sounds like its worth a look. The last Tiguan I drove was nice but a handling was NOT where it was at.
Would you suggest the fwd or Awd version?
I recently went from a Tiguan SE to a Taos S FWD with the IQ drive and convenience packages. The Taos definitely feels peppier despite having a smaller engine. It must be down on weight and I feel like the transmission tuning seems better when starting and stopping. Especially for when you want to not quite stop completely at a stop sign.
I kind of miss the larger screen and keyless entry from the higher trim lines, but overall I am very happy with it.
*Edit I have fwd not awd
I am buying the awd s trim as well, how is the gas mileage?
@@abygaylestephens5101 sorry, I meant to say that I have the front wheel drive. It will not be as efficient as FWD since the AWD has the DSG automatic transmission instead of the regular automatic and there are efficiency losses with awd. I drive very conservatively and mostly highway and can get around 40 mpg. I will have to check the average long term mpg in the car and let you know.
I do still wish I went for the AWD, though for the few times when I go snowboarding.
@@adamrutledge396 thank you, I appreciate it.
I come from a 2019 Tiguan SEL r line and it doesn't have the same power from Tiguan but it makes up in it's overall performance, right off the bat the handling was surprising with how tighter it was compared to the Tiguan
We went to CarMax yesterday and drove a 2022 Taos 4Motion SEL back to back with a 2022 Tiguan SE R-Line Black Package, and the Taos was better in almost every aspect. Peppier, smoother ride, quieter on the road, more room in the backseat, it was so much better than the Tiguan.
I'm SO happy it doesn't have a power liftgate! They're always slow/finicky and cost a fortune to fix when they break. How feeble are you to need one.......
Beautiful house/yard in the summary at the end. Hopefully they make a version in the future with the EA888
Just test drove this today. I love it. My wife loves it. We can't wait. I do agree with the power though and wonder why they'd not put the GTI engine but I guess that's the q3 either way
Then it would cost to much
What's the ground clearance?
Got the tiguan sel r-line!! Can't go wrong with it!! Have had it for about 4 months and average 35mpg highway and 30mpg city!! And it's much bigger
At 17:00 you nearly hit a boat !! LoL ! Excellent video, btw.
38k? I’d definitely go with the Mazda CX-30 Turbo.
no brainer
That’s what a got last Friday! Love it! Made in Japan! Super solid
@@2004cyrus ahaha this guy got a cx30 instead of the 3 and hes saying tht to people without shame.
Its ok like bad choices bt it sud be hidden.
or just spend few hours and get the price a bit lower that 38k for an arteon SEL.....u get more space and a way better car :)
@@nanalala3902 38K will get you a sweet ass Mazda CX5. end of story,, It's like the price tag on this POS is a commercial for other vehicles, because it is sure making everything else on the market look like a bargain you can get a Lexus NX for that price
I actually really like these from the videos I've seen so far. But I've gotten so spoiled by my Kia Niro's 45-50mpg. I kinda wish the Taos had either a hybrid to be comparable, or a sportier 2.0L model to be more fun. Especially since it replaced the Golf.
The engine choice is really odd. I'd have expected something like a 2.0 or 2.4 liter and it's a shame that there is no traditional hybrid available.
Almost everyone I know that has bought a VW in the last few years had lots of issues the closer they got to 100k miles. We test drive the Atlas when it first came out and couldn't get over how cheap it felt inside, like all the plastic came from the dollar store. I've always heard, lease the Germans buy the Japanese.
for that price... Japanese cars will be with same quality plastic.
VW sucks. Now they are cost cutting even more ever since diesel-gate.
Buy a Mazda if you want a german feel with japanese reliability
Great review. I think I am a new fan of the Taos
VW do have performance focused SUVs just not in the US market. There's the T-Roc R, Tiguan R and Toureg R.
I currently have a VW Jetta, but I really like the look and size of the Tous.
I really wish they would stop with those fake exhaust tips, other then that I like the design. Im not sure why VW and Audi think they look good because they dont.
They dont think so, they just sell cars and if people choose them more often they produce them more.
Excellent, as always, review. As an owner of the original Tiguan, the Taos is worth a look! Thanks!!!!
After APR gets their hands on one, their stage one tune should add an extra 50hp and 75ish tq.
That's too much strain on that small 1.5 liter turbo engine, especially when the Taos is loaded down with family and cargo. Engine will have issues right after warranty ends.
I've tested both the FWD and the AWD version of the Taos. IMO, the AWD is easily the better option. Having said that, for the AWD models, VW should have (at least) used the 1.8L TSI from the (discontinued) Alltrack and added paddle shifters to the steering column. That would have made for an exceptional vehicle for it's class, and added value to the rather high price that VW is asking for the Taos.
The “ cleaner, newer” logo is the OLD VW logo from the ‘50’s lol !Great review! Glad to see an orignal Tiguan sized CUV back with VW on the grille!
In this review it mentions the seats are leatherette but when I go to build the SEL it mentions leather only in the SEL version. Which type do they really have?
cloth on the S, Leatherette on SE, Leather on the SEL
You are so very good at this!
I have Taos 2022 and I really loved👍
Volkswagen - The Brand People Trust Without Any Hesitation 👉💯😍
So a budget Q3? Is the Taos available in Laos
Very solid review, Shared this with my brother that is looking to go from his Jetta to the Taos. I will test drive it as well to see how it feels compared to my VW Alltrack. Creating a GTI version of this would be really cool to see, but I also want the Alltrack to come back since they redesigned it and kept it in Europe this time around.
Not a chance in hell that VW will try to resurrect the extremely slow selling Alltrack wagon in the US. The mainstream wagon for sale in the US is the Outback and Subaru does everything they can to disguise the fact that it's a lifted wagon.
@@stephenhendricks103 I do agree that they will never bring it back here, but it is actually not dead yet. They did redesign it to match the Mk8 Golf, but it will be yet more forbidden fruit.
Going from a Jetta to this is like going from the frying pan into the fire. He should look to a different brand if he values his money/sanity.
@@DJPleasureSeekingMissle you have any mental issues dude? maybe not everybody keeps their car for 100 years.
I like it, from most reviews I've seen it definitely needs an optional engine with more power, but the engine it has now is probably good for most people.
Right, and most people are sheep.
In EU they have the T-Roc R with 2.0L 300hp AWD
I would get that in a heartbeat
Same as Australia we have the T Roc and T Cross.
Yea but it’s €45,000 Euros not cheap at all
Average European also makes more money! Here only the super rich can afford anything and ,obviously, they not gonna buy a Taos. The local middle-class is broke and VW knows about it.
We need a comparison test with the Kia Seltos and Mazda CX-30!
mazda rear seats for kids only.
I'll take the Kia Seltos end with the somewhat clunky transmission anyday. 100K warranty and solid build quality.
I’d take the CX-30, however I would like to test one of these as I would consider it. My only concern is VW’s reliability. I have had 3 Mazda’s so far and never had an issue.
@@Kev_inn_ That's a very wise and measured statement. Even the Atlas, one of VW's best sellers, has had reliability issues. Mazda is a very reliable car brand and has been for some time. I like KIA/Hyundai because these guys are serious about rising in the ranks.
@@dextersmithbsee I agree with you, personally I love Kia/Hyundai as well and they have gone far from when they first started. However Hyundai has had some serious recalls as well. Don’t get me wrong I personally love the design language of VW and Hyundai/Kia it’s just the reliability that gets me thinking. I currently have a 2019 Mazda3 hatchback and I’m considering switching to CUV. But idk. Kinda like having a small car and the agility of it.
If you have a VW and sit in this VW the environment is familiar.
Wow, just amazing facts....
Awesome explanation, however @ 10:55 the reason the floor is not flat is because the car is a 4motion I mean it needs that hump to run a transmission bar to the rear wheels under it. Thanks for the vid.
Excellent review.
Thank you!
Relatively solid sounding thunk!
It seems like Volkswagen didn't road test this vehicle much or didn't care that the transmission and engine don't get along well at all. We bought the 2022 with 4 motion and the power is good but the transmission shifts very poorly from 1st to 2nd and lurches forward when even being light on the throttle. Its very difficult to drive smoothly when starting off the line.
I can get mine as smooth as any, zero of the lurching or whatever I hear you and some others talk about. You need to figire out how to use it and listen and feel what it does. And don't slam on the gas pedal but first press lightly until you feel it engage and rev up slightly, THEN you can go for it as you prefer 😆
I like the price. I'm usually immensely dislike gray but I kinda liked this shade of gray. The deal breaker is not having a power lift gate. My current car has that and it's a 2017!!! It's one of the things I like best about my car. The power lift gate is so CONVENIENT!!!
you must be really lazy.
@@ricome169 F U!!!!
I love it! Yea for pano roof 👍🏽
EXCELENT REVIEW!!!!!!!!⭐️
I can’t find this wheel option when building on the Volkswagen website.
It just needs 200 HP then I'd buy it
292 hp
So you can go to 65mph? Alright!
@@FRND23 for a grocery getter, yeah that's pretty good
I just got one and the car drums even when I’m not pushing it
I love the scenery behind you. where was this filmed?
The power is fine remember the Crosstrek is one of the slowest yet it outsells everything in class
I agree. People that buy this will gladly take the better MPG and won’t care that it’s not as fast as a GTI.
Power may be fine if you're driving it solo. However, if the Taos has a whole family and all their cargo inside, I bet it feels sluggish.
@@braetonwilson4296 I’m sure you’re right but VW figured out what sells in the US. They offered the Passat (07-10) and original Tiguan with “The GTI engine” and nobody bought them. The 2012+ Passat has sold much better with less power and the 2nd gen Tiguan is their best seller.
Another good and helpful review. Thank you!
hi, what cameras do you use?
3:17 - The taillights remind me of the Audi Q5 TSI just a bit.
Love VW products! Nice review thanks for sharing!
I immediately noticed the Audi lines. Very pretty vehicle.
My concern would be power at highway passing speed, and in the hills and mountains, especially if loaded with people and cargo.
The engine has 184 lb-ft of torque from 1750 rpm which should be plenty.
My concern would be driving this past the warranty period.
DJ Pleasure Seeking Missle why are you so upset
@@DJPleasureSeekingMissle Isn’t that Toyota for? Past the warranty? If you want fun in driving while doesn’t care about reliability, then Toyota Taos/golf for you, not Volkswagen Corolla/rav4.
@@ahsanmalik1013 your comment makes no sense but regardless, there’s nothing fun about driving a shitbox VW as it falls apart the longer you own it.
The Taos is from the C Segment (compact) not the sub-compact, that's why it's roomy inside. But it's below the Tiguan. The compact SUV segment splitted in two variations, just like the Tiguan and the Taos, here in Argentina, Toyota did it with the RAV-4 (in my country is VERY expensive, almost no one buys one, and too big for our market), and the new Corolla Cross. The Corolla Cross a compact SUV that sits below the RAV-4 in size and pricing. And for the sub compact segment you have the CH-R. In the case of Volkswagen, as sub compact you have the T-Cross and the Nivus wich is the "coupe" version of the T-Cross.
But yeah, it's a lot better than the Sub compacts because of its size.
Actually the Taos is not a compact SUV, it is sub-compact. But, it is the largest in the sub-compact segment, so much so that it could be considered as the smallest in the compact segment.
Why is it that reviews are always given of the most expensive trim level? It would make more sense to give reviews of the most popular trim level with information and photos provided for the most expensive.
This is a literal evolution of the previous generation Tiguan in terms of shape and size
Is it smaller than the Tiguan?
@@jamesdonoghue7967 I think it's about the same size as the old one
Wondering why we didn’t get the T-Roc or T-Cross, or even the shorter wheelbase Tiguan, and instead the Taos, an entirely new model, for the U.S. Kind of like the US vs EU versions of the Passat, or the Atlas vs. Tuareg.
I love your videos
APR and Unitronic to the rescue.
Let's hope. Neither one has anything for it yet.
Great review of this SUV.
Comparison with subcompacts?
I actually like the horn, I troll people with my atlas’ horn. People always get caught off guard
MKBHD of car reviews))) Hi I’ve had this product for a week and here’s what i think about it))) First person to review this car ? Thank you Sir !
Why are the auto makers using plastic products inside and on the doors instead of chrome. It dulls, tarnish and ends up scratched easily and discoloration. I impressed with the Taos really good looking vehicle
Too expensive at $35K for the fully loaded one. You can get a CX-5 for that price. Plus this model lacks a driver's side ceiling grip and no power trunk, foolish. Being that this is not made in Germany, it should cost the most at $29, 000
thats what i said!!!!! CX5. Barely equipped blows this out the water, 31K and you're at a nice CX5 dinner is served
Exactly I just bought a loaded 21’ CX-5 last Friday and it stickered for $33,775 - I traded in a 19’ Tiguan.
@@2004cyrus what’s been you ur experience with the Tiguan ? I’m told they’re crap
just get a q3
@@yankeedoodle6293 don’t believe everything you hear from people who like to bash cars and be negative yet most never own the cars they bash. They just need a reason to gossip. I’ve owned 5 Volkswagens now, 2 Tiguans. I drive from Texas to California in my Tiguan and it’s been flawless and I tell all of my friends and family how solid and smooth and quiet it is. I’ve maintained it. The only real complaint is that along with most everyone else, I think the power is adequate due to the healthy amount of torque but it’s not going to win any races. I only paid $24,300 including destination for mine and it’s been great! I feel like I spent more money: it’s got some of the best seats I’ve ever used. Plenty of storage spaces & a large cargo area. I could go on and on. Everyone I know that has one likes it. I highly recommend the Tiguan. I also have amazing luck with Mazda products, too.